Advocacy and Communications Intern

Position Overview

Vista Autism Services is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Advocacy and Communications Intern to assist with a legislative advocacy campaign aimed at improving funding equity for individuals with autism. This internship offers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in advocacy, communications, and stakeholder engagement while supporting a mission-driven organization dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with autism and their families.

The intern will work closely with the Communications Manager, the leadership team, and external lobbyists to coordinate campaign efforts, develop advocacy materials, and support grassroots initiatives. This position is ideal for a college student pursuing a degree in communications, public policy, nonprofit management, or a related field.

Key Responsibilities

Content Creation and Management

• Develop and edit advocacy materials, including fact sheets, templates, and social media posts.
• Assist in creating toolkits and guides for stakeholders, such as parents and school districts.
• Manage content updates and ensure consistency in messaging across all platforms.

Research and Data Analysis

• Research legislative districts and identify representatives for stakeholders.
• Analyze campaign progress and stakeholder feedback to inform strategy.
• Compile data on legislative schedules and stakeholder outreach.

Administrative Support

• Coordinate and attend meetings with lobbyists, legislators, and Vista’s leadership team.
• Assist in scheduling and organizing advocacy events, webinars, and tours.
• Maintain organized records of communications, endorsements, and campaign activities.

Message Drafting and Representative Identification

• Draft advocacy messages tailored for parents, legislators, and other stakeholders.
• Match parents with their legislative representatives and provide supporting materials.
• Help prepare customizable form letters for stakeholder use.

Parent Activation and Engagement

• Support the grassroots campaign by activating parent representatives and providing training.
• Organize webinars or small-group meetings to guide parents in advocacy efforts.
• Create and maintain communication channels for parent representatives to stay connected.

Tracking and Reporting

• Monitor and track campaign milestones, including outreach activities and stakeholder engagement.
• Provide regular updates on the progress of the campaign to Vista leadership and lobbyists.

Event Coordination

• Assist in planning and coordinating advocacy tours for legislators and stakeholders.
• Support logistics for webinars, in-person meetings, and other advocacy events.
• Help ensure smooth communication between Vista, parents, and external partners.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in communications, public policy, nonprofit management, political science, or a related field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to adapt messaging for different audiences.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace; experience with social media platforms is a plus.
• Enthusiastic, collaborative, and eager to contribute to a mission-driven organization.
• Interest in advocacy, legislative processes, or nonprofit work is preferred.

Learning Opportunities

• Gain experience in legislative advocacy and nonprofit communications.
• Build skills in stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and grassroots campaign development.
• Work alongside experienced professionals and lobbyists to learn about advocacy in action.
• Develop a deeper understanding of issues impacting individuals with autism and their families.

Work Schedule and Compensation

This is a part-time internship (15-20 hours per week) with flexible hours to accommodate academic schedules. The position may involve occasional travel to meetings and events. This is an unpaid internship; however, school credit may be available based on your institution’s policies.

How to Apply

Submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your interest in this position and how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Vista Autism Services is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.